His 1961 Chevrolet Impala SS 409 (a car so rare only 42 were reportedly built) wasn't just a showpiece—it was a race-bred machine that carved up Texas dragstrips throughout the 1960s.

The 1961 Impala was standard with a six-cylinder engine. The 235ci unit was rated at 145 horsepower and was aimed at people who wanted the exquisite look of the Impala without burning many dollars ...

For 1961, engine choices became even more varied. The Chevrolet Impala offered a base 283-cubic-inch V8 with 180 horsepower, along with an available 327-cubic-inch V8 producing 250 horsepower.